This is a great summary of the game, I just wanted to add on that you don’t necessarily have to start a new character for expeditions. They added the “Expedition Terminus” in the Space Anomaly a few updates back, which lets you start the expedition from an existing save.
That said, I always start a new character, because those first couple hours where I’m trying to get on my feet are always the most challenging for me, and that keeps the game fresh by pushing me outside my usual style of engaging with the game.
I love walking sims, exploration games, and mysteries… Kona was such a great title. Really moody and atmospheric. Looking forward to picking up the sequel soon, maybe during this sale. Thanks for sharing!